The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic year are now open for applications. These prestigious scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and are designed to support research that makes a real impact in least developed countries and fragile states.
Key Details
- Scholarship: Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
- Country: United Kingdom
- Application Deadline: 15th October 2024
- Focus: Research in Least Developed Countries
- Funding: Covers tuition, stipend, travel costs
- Study Start: September 2025
- Application Process: Apply online
- Criteria: Academic merit, research proposal, impact
About the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
Provided by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK, these scholarships are part of the UK government’s international development goals. The CSC operates under the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), demonstrating the UK's commitment to the Commonwealth by fostering international cooperation and leadership.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Airfare: Approved flight from home country to the UK and back
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees
- Stipend: £1,378 per month, or £1,690 in London
- Warm Clothing Allowance: If needed
- Study Travel Grant: For travel related to your study
- Fieldwork Costs: Economy class return flight if fieldwork is abroad
- Mid-term Visit: Paid return trip to home country
- Family Allowances: Extra funds if spouse and children live with you in the UK
Eligibility Requirements
- Be a citizen or refugee of a Commonwealth country or a British Protected Person
- Be permanently living in an eligible Commonwealth country
- Be ready to start studies in the UK by September 2025
- Hold at least an upper second-class degree or a relevant Master’s degree
- Not be registered for a PhD at a UK university or in your home country before September/October 2025
- Demonstrate financial need
- Provide required supporting documents
Selection Criteria
- Academic merit
- Quality of research proposal
- Potential impact on the home country
How to Apply
Applications for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic year are now open. Submit your application by 15 October 2024, 16:00 BST (15:00 GMT). Apply early to avoid issues with the online system.
Applications must be made through a nominator, which could be:
- National nominating agencies - view the list here
- Selected universities/university bodies - view the list here
- Non-governmental organisations and charitable bodies - find out more here
Apply now for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships.
For more information and to submit your application, visit the official Commonwealth PhD Scholarships webpage.
Make sure to meet all eligibility requirements and submit your application by the deadline!
Conclusion
The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships offer a transformative opportunity for talented researchers from least developed and fragile states. By providing comprehensive funding and support, these scholarships aim to foster impactful research and advance global development goals. If you’re passionate about making a difference through your research, this is your chance to gain invaluable experience and contribute to meaningful change.
Don’t miss the opportunity to apply by the deadline of October 15, 2024. Start your application today and take the first step towards a groundbreaking academic journey in the United Kingdom. For more details and to apply, visit the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships webpage.
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